Faculty, Teaching and Campus Staff

STEPS Forward, through the BC Initiative for Inclusive Post Secondary Education (BC-IPSE), STEPS Forward supports students with developmental disabilities to access academic or vocational programs open to any student, engage in campus life through clubs, sports, and regular campus activities. Coherent with typical post secondary students, to find summer employment that will potentially lead to the development of a career related to their field of study.

These students earn a Certificate of Completion, issued their college or university, in a specific field of study as non-crediting students. They study regular undergraduate courses along side their peers. Course requirements, such as exams, labs, and assignments, are modified so that the individual student can learn and engage in the classroom. Since 2001 they have been students in a wide variety of courses and disciplines from almost every faculty. (see graph)

“I feel like an Adult for the first time.“ - UBC Student“I like to go to the UVIC Women's Centrewhere people are welcome and I welcome people.” - UVic Student“I learned that I am capable, academically” - UBCO Student

What does non-crediting student mean?

Students follow the same curriculum as crediting students but the course work is adapted by the inclusion facilitator to suit the individual learning styles.

Students do not receive grades or degrees. They are recognized by the university for their studies with a Certificate of Completion in a concentration of studies. The Certificate is awarded during the regular convocation of their peers graduating with a BA in the same field.

Instructors are not obligated to give feedback on assignments or exams, but when they do it greatly enhances the student experience by providing insight on their academic work.

What is the role of the instructor?

To expect that the student will participate in all aspects of the course, including assignments, exams, group work and tutorials or labs for the course.

To be available to the student as they are to any other student.

To be willing to be in communication with the inclusion facilitator about course objectives and upcoming assignments and exams.

What is the role of STEPS Forward Inclusion Facilitators?

To modify and adapt course material, including exams and assignments.

To facilitate the student's relationship with their instructor and peers.

To connect the student to extra-curricular campus activities that enriches their student experience.

To be available on campus at any time throughout the semester to address any concerns or questions from the campus community.